A SCHEME to combat anti-social behaviour in Chineham has got underway.
A Designated Public Places Order has been applied in the village as of Monday, March 1 giving police officers additional powers to deal with people in possession of alcohol in public places. The areas covered include Chineham Shoopping Centre, Remembrance Gardens, New Binfields Sports Barn and various play areas.
PC Jim Charlton, of the Chineham Safer Neighbourhoods team, said: “The order provides police with a discretionary power to seize alcohol. “It will not be used in circumstances where families are enjoying picnics or other organised and responsibly run events. However it will be used to seize alcohol from those who are causing or likely to cause disorder.
“We have worked closely with the council to get the order put in place and we believe it will make a difference to people living in Chineham and the surrounding areas.”
Meanwhile cabinet member for community safety, Cllr Clive Sanders, said: “We need to stamp down on anti-social behaviour so that we can all be free to enjoy peace in the place where we live. This DDPO was asked for by the local community. It follows on from those orders already in force in and around the town centre, Brighton Hill, Kingslcere, Oakley and Overton where we have listened to the concerns of local people taken the appropriate action.
“Basingstoke and Deane is a safe place to live and we will do whatever is necessary to keep it that way.”
For more information visit www.hampshire.police.uk
